The Missouri Tigers, who are 2-0 so far this season, recently defeated Kansas in the Border War in a thrilling 42-31 victory. Thanks to QB Beau Pribula, and his outstanding performance with three touchdowns, no interceptions, and 334 yards on 30-of-39 passing. The Tigers appear ready to finally make their mark, with WR Jamal Roberts‘ spectacular runs leading the way. And playmakers like Kevin Coleman Jr. stepping up and their offense clicking, must have the Missouri fans thrilled, right? Turns out this ‘thrill’ took a hit as the future of their game schedule appears uncertain, and their head coach took to social media to address the issue.

As Mizzou is about to face the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns on September 13, HC Eli Drinkwitz made a bold and direct statement on X that has fans buzzing on social media: “The great ones adjust.” His four-word statement was his reaction to a controversial and abrupt shift in the team’s schedule that upset a lot of fans. While some found the message dismissive, others applauded the coach for emphasizing strength and adaptability in the face of obstacles.

The adjustment in the schedule came as a result of extreme weather conditions. “Saturday’s Louisiana at Missouri football game has been moved up three hours to a 1:00pm ET/noon CT kickoff due to extreme heat in the forecast. The game remains streaming-only via SEC Network+ and ESPN+.” Initially, the game was supposed to start at 3 p.m. Saturday highs of 96 degrees predicted by the Weather Channel, and the temperature is expected to reach its highest point at the set kickoff time. It is expected that kickoff temperatures will be closer to 90 degrees owing to the new start time.

By the time it was originally scheduled to start, the game should be in the fourth quarter. The decision, which aims to protect player health and fan safety during the game, was made after speaking with public safety experts and the National Weather Service. Despite the backlash, Drinkwitz’s point highlights how challenging it is to guide a team through unexpected scenarios. His words and the revised schedule point out the need for finding a balance between safety, strategic planning, and keeping team spirit under stress.

Missouri fans react with outrage and loyalty after last-minute kickoff change

Following the abrupt change in kickoff time for the upcoming game against Louisiana, Missouri fans were quick to express their frustration. “Wtf? 2 days before hand you change the kickoff time by 3 hours?” one fan said, clearly annoyed by the updated timings. Others chimed in about the impact on their plans: “Great, we can’t make it to a noon gametime! This really sucks!” and “Please explain why you believe the temperature and sun exposure will be better between 12-4 than 3-7. Sun exposure matters!!!” 

The game is set to be played in Faurot Field, Missouri, where it’s already hot enough without having to bake in the afternoon sun, and some fans just couldn’t stand it: “Extreme heat? It’s September in Missouri….” The Tiger faithful’s mixed emotions were reflected in the various reactions, some of which were slightly humorous or encouraging, while many others expressed utter anger or confusion. “How bad were you bullied at Alma high? Heard that’s why you can’t come back. The PTSD is too traumatizing,” one fan joked.

Others were quick to lighten the mood: “Adapt and overcome coach.” A few still showed their loyalty, with one writing, “In Drink we trust,” while another expressed gratitude for the time change, “Now I can watch online easier over here in Poland. Thanks Coach!” Then there were those who tried to process the situation on their own, even if reluctantly. One fan acknowledged, “My wife is gonna be pissed.” Emotions ranging from rage to sarcasm to grudging acceptance were obviously triggered by the change. In the end, Missouri fans aren’t shying away from standing with the team through the ups and downs.